Discuss Auto dim mirror install from an explorer - Page 8

rwenzing · #**106** 01-25-2011, 06:09 AM

Ford has used more than one size windshield tab for different years and mirrors.

It is possible to remove the tab using a heat gun and a vise grip plier. In a junkyard, a propane torch could probably be substituted. With either method, be careful not to get the surrounding glass too hot.

The special adhesive for attaching the replacement tab is available at an auto parts store. The glass and tab must be completely clean before applying the adhesive.

Clinton · #**107** 01-25-2011, 06:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rwenzing

Ford has used more than one size windshield tab for different years and mirrors.

That I did not know! Thank you!

edgerider2002 · #**108** 01-25-2011, 11:34 PM

so... im sure i just got different sizes and it just isnt going to work lol

buggman · #**109** 01-26-2011, 12:14 AM

X2 on the different sizes of windshield mounts.

My old OEM mirror mount would have been about 1/8" narrower than the one I ripped out of the Explorer. My OEM mirror mount broke off several times over the years & the last kit I got had a black plastic mount for the glass. It's a little taller than the OEM Ranger mount, but it's still about 1/8" narrower than the Expo mount.
Rather than remove the plastic window mount & risk it not sticking in place again... I just left it in place & made a wedge to hold it in place until it breaks off again.

Now here's a new question for the auto dim thread:
Let's say I don't want to use the auto headlight feature of the mirror, and let's say I'm not sure if I want to use the OHC, but I'd like the auto dim mirror to auto dim... Would it be possible to simply remove the electronics from the OHC, connect power & grounds to the wiring & have the mirror work properly?
Any tricks or tips to make this work??

rwenzing · #**110** 01-26-2011, 06:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by buggman

I'd like the auto dim mirror to auto dim... Would it be possible to simply remove the electronics from the OHC, connect power & grounds to the wiring & have the mirror work properly?
Any tricks or tips to make this work??

Console:
Without the temp/compass display, the Gen2 Ex overhead console only has dome and map light functions. Connecting the console's black/blue, green/orange and black per the How-to should get them working.

Mirror -Auto-Dim only:
I would simply wire the Gen2 Ex mirror as in the How-to except not connect the white/pink. The auto dim will work fine without the autolamps.

[If the dimming cancel in reverse is not desired, then the black/pink would not need to be connected to the reverse lamps either. I have it working in my truck and it comes in handy every once in a while.]

[To simplify the wiring further, it MIGHT be possible to consolidate the power for the mirror's green/yellow and red/yellow and connect them both to a "hot in run" source. I haven't tried that myself but it looks like it would work.]

S13minus1 · #**111** 03-16-2011, 06:54 PM

anybody do this on a '10?

S13minus1 · #**112** 04-21-2011, 02:44 PM

Im trying to wrap my head around this wiring. The relays are just acting as a interception of the switch, correct? Also, is the white / pink wire acting as a ground or as a positive 12v for the relays? I dont really understand why there is so much splicing into other harnesses for this.
Now all i need is a diagram for my 2010, shouldnt be too hard to get. Thanks! Ps typing this with a ps3 sucks haha

Clinton · #**113** 04-21-2011, 02:48 PM

Its easier that iit sounds, you just get the jelly leg when you start cutting the main headlight wires! White/pink is your connection to the relays and they in turn run to the headlight switch.

S13minus1 · #**114** 04-21-2011, 03:12 PM

The wiring doesnt really scare me, I just was wondering if anyone knows does the white/pink wire act as a ground path for the relays or does it put out 12v, so I can just route a hot wire or make a ground path, respectively. I also need a wiring diagram to find a hot in run/start wire that I can tap into. When I figure these out I'll have it up and running no time.

Clinton · #**115** 04-21-2011, 03:16 PM

Pink/white I believe ( if I remember right) acts as the relay trigger for the mirror sensors

S13minus1 · #**116** 04-21-2011, 03:27 PM

I know its the white/pink wire, I just need to know what that wire actually does to actuate the relays. Does it put out 12v, or does it give the relays a ground path? I need to know how it triggers the relays, lol
Sorry for any confusion!

Clinton · #**117** 04-21-2011, 03:59 PM

Good lord man!

S13minus1 · #**118** 04-21-2011, 04:43 PM

Why good lord? I don't understand.

Clinton · #**119** 04-21-2011, 04:44 PM

Cause you got me confused now

S13minus1 · #**120** 04-21-2011, 04:59 PM

Im not sure how else to explain it, haha
To actuate the relays, the white/pink wire can either
A) Put out 12v to the relay (power side controlled)
B) Provide a path to ground (ground side contolled)

To make A work, I'd just ground out the other side of the coil in the relay. To make B work, I'd have to give the other side of the coil in the relay 12v.

For example, a starter motor is power side controlled. It is always grounded out, and it gets 12v from the solenoid to turn it on.